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In 2007 the New Mexico State Police focused on traffic safety related initiatives to make roadways throughout New Mexico safer. Working with other law enforcement agencies and the public, the State Police met their highway safety goals, making 2007 a remarkable year.

 “The various projects conducted in 2007 beginning with the “the 100 Days and Nights of Summer”, increased enforcement of seatbelt violations, IMPACT operations, commercial vehicle enforcement operations and increased enforcement of the Liquor Control Act, to name a few, contributed to an improved quality of life for all New Mexicans”, said New Mexico State Police Chief Faron W. Segotta

During 2007, statistics indicated a 14.7% reduction in fatalities and 7.9% reduction in alcohol related fatalities; 413 total fatalities in 2007 compared to 484 in 2006 and 176 alcohol related fatalities compared to 191 alcohol related fatalities in 2007. The New Mexico State Police recognized the importance of sound selective traffic enforcement operations coupled with an awareness and education campaign. As demonstrated by the more than 192,000 traffic citations issued on New Mexico Highways. To include nearly 15,000 citations for seatbelt and child restraint violations. The cornerstone of the NMSP successful enforcement operations were the Sobriety Checkpoint Operations and the100 Days and Nights of Summer campaign.

In New Mexico the Sobriety Checkpoint Operations is a year round initiative. This multi-agency statewide effort focuses on removing impaired drivers from roadways. Emphasis is placed on deterring drivers from drinking and driving while impaired, which is accomplished through the media and more than 300 checkpoints conducted by the NMSP throughout New Mexico in 2007. A second initiative, the 100 Days and Nights of Summer campaign specifically focused on the summer months when fatalities historically increase.

From June 1—September 8, 2007, the NMSP conducted 113 sobriety checkpoints and arrested 1051 suspected drunk drivers. Fatalities decreased by more than 18% when compared to the same time frame in 2006. “For the first time in our State’s history seatbelt compliance has exceeded the 90% mark. Additionally, New Mexico is no longer one of the top ten states in the country in terms of alcohol related deaths.”, said Chief Segotta.

 “These significant accomplishments are a direct reflection of hard work and serve as an example of the impact the NMSP can have when collaborating with the law enforcement community, the media and the public, utilizing all our resources as we work toward a common goal of safer highways.”